By smartcubs Mrs. Annie Pearson is a central character in J.B. Priestley’s one-act play “Mother’s Day.” The play revolves around her transformation from a submissive housewife to a confident and assertive woman, thanks to the intervention of her neighbor, Mrs. Fitzgerald. Through her character, the play explores themes of self-respect, gender roles, and family dynamics.
Appearance
Mrs. Annie Pearson’s appearance reflects her initial role as a traditional, overworked housewife. She is depicted as a woman who has dedicated herself to the care of her family, often at the expense of her own needs and desires.
- Build: Average, but slightly tired-looking due to constant household chores
- Hair: Neatly styled but not fashionable, indicating practicality
- Clothing: Simple and functional, suitable for a housewife
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Build | Average, slightly tired |
| Hair | Neatly styled, practical |
| Clothing | Simple, functional |
Personality Traits
Mrs. Annie Pearson’s personality undergoes a significant transformation over the course of the play. Initially, she embodies traits of submission and self-sacrifice, but later reveals strength, assertiveness, and a desire for respect.
Submission and Self-Sacrifice
At the beginning of the play, Mrs. Pearson is the epitome of a submissive and self-sacrificing housewife. She puts her family’s needs above her own and rarely voices her own opinions or desires.
- Submissive: Obeys her family’s demands without question
- Self-Sacrificing: Neglects her own needs for the sake of her family
- Timid: Hesitates to speak up or assert herself
Transformation to Assertiveness
After her personality swap with Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mrs. Pearson becomes more assertive and confident. She begins to stand up for herself and demand the respect she deserves.
- Assertive: Clearly communicates her needs and boundaries
- Confident: No longer afraid to voice her opinions
- Self-Respecting: Understands her own worth and demands respect from her family
Role in the Story
Mrs. Annie Pearson’s journey from a submissive housewife to an assertive individual is central to the play’s narrative. Her transformation challenges the traditional gender roles and dynamics within her family.
Initial Submissive Role
In the beginning, Mrs. Pearson’s role is to cater to the whims and needs of her husband and children, often at the cost of her own happiness and well-being.
- Caretaker: Manages all household chores single-handedly
- Unappreciated: Receives little recognition or gratitude for her efforts
- Invisible: Her needs and desires are often overlooked by her family
Post-Transformation Role
Following the personality exchange with Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mrs. Pearson’s role shifts dramatically. She begins to assert her presence and demands a more balanced and respectful family dynamic.
- Authority Figure: Establishes herself as an equal member of the family
- Demanding Respect: Insists on being treated with respect and consideration
- Empowered Individual: Takes control of her own life and happiness
Relationships with Other Characters
Mrs. Annie Pearson’s relationships with her family members undergo significant changes as she transforms from a submissive to an assertive character.
George Pearson (Husband)
Initially, George takes Annie for granted, expecting her to fulfill the traditional duties of a housewife without question.
- Before Transformation:
- Dominant: Expects obedience and service
- Unappreciative: Takes Annie’s efforts for granted
- After Transformation:
- Challenged: Faces resistance from the newly assertive Annie
- Respectful: Learns to appreciate and respect Annie’s efforts
Doris Pearson (Daughter)
Doris, like her father, is accustomed to having her needs met by her submissive mother.
- Before Transformation:
- Demanding: Expects her mother to cater to her whims
- Disrespectful: Shows little regard for Annie’s feelings
- After Transformation:
- Surprised: Shocked by her mother’s new assertiveness
- Respectful: Gradually learns to treat her mother with more respect
Cyril Pearson (Son)
Cyril also displays a lack of respect for Annie’s efforts and takes her for granted.
- Before Transformation:
- Insensitive: Unaware of his mother’s sacrifices
- Expectant: Assumes his mother will always be there to serve him
- After Transformation:
- Awakened: Realizes the importance of respecting his mother
- Considerate: Begins to appreciate Annie’s role and efforts
Key Incidents Involving Mrs. Annie Pearson
Several key incidents in the play highlight Mrs. Pearson’s transformation and her interactions with her family.
Personality Swap with Mrs. Fitzgerald
The personality swap is the turning point in the play, marking the beginning of Mrs. Pearson’s transformation.
- Initiation: Mrs. Fitzgerald uses her mystical powers to exchange personalities with Annie
- Transformation: Annie, now with Mrs. Fitzgerald’s assertive personality, starts standing up for herself
Confrontations with Family Members
Post-transformation, Annie confronts each family member, challenging their behavior and demanding respect.
- George: Asserts her desire for respect and equality in the marriage
- Doris: Refuses to cater to her whims and insists on mutual respect
- Cyril: Demands recognition for her efforts and sacrifices